Crunchy Thai Chicken Salad is a fresh, vibrant, and protein-packed meal loaded with shredded chicken, crisp vegetables, and a bold peanut dressing bursting with lime and cilantro flavor. This easy Thai-inspired salad is perfect for busy weekdays when you want something light yet satisfying. Ready in just 15 minutes, it delivers restaurant-quality taste with simple ingredients and minimal prep.
Key Takeaways
• Fresh, crunchy, and refreshing salad
• High-protein meal with shredded chicken
• Bold peanut lime dressing
• Ready in only 15 minutes
• Perfect for lunch or light dinner
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This salad combines texture, flavor, and freshness in every bite. The crunchy cabbage and carrots balance perfectly with tender chicken, while the creamy peanut dressing adds a tangy, savory kick. It’s quick to prepare, easy for beginners, and ideal for meal prep or healthy eating without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
3 cups shredded green cabbage
1 cup shredded purple cabbage
1 cup julienned carrots
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
3 green onions, sliced
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/3 cup roasted peanuts, roughly chopped
For the Peanut Dressing:
3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1 clove garlic, minced
2–3 tablespoons warm water (to thin dressing)
Equipment
Large mixing bowl
Small bowl or jar for dressing
Whisk or fork
Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Add warm water gradually until the dressing becomes smooth and pourable. - Combine vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, add green cabbage, purple cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, green onions, and cilantro. - Add the chicken
Add shredded cooked chicken to the bowl and gently toss with the vegetables. - Toss with dressing
Pour the peanut dressing over the salad. Toss thoroughly until everything is evenly coated. - Add crunch
Sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts over the salad for texture and flavor. - Serve immediately
Serve fresh for the best crunch and vibrant flavor.
Tips & Variations
Use rotisserie chicken for the quickest preparation.
Add sliced avocado for extra creaminess.
Swap chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option.
Adjust spice by adding chili flakes or sriracha to the dressing.
Keep dressing separate until serving if meal prepping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve as a light main dish or pair with spring rolls, dumplings, or jasmine rice for a complete meal. It also works beautifully as a refreshing side dish for grilled meats or summer gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store salad and dressing separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Toss just before serving to maintain crunch.
This salad is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.
Nutrition (Approx.)
Calories: 390 per serving
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 4g
FAQs
Can I make Thai chicken salad ahead of time?
Yes, prep ingredients ahead but mix with dressing just before serving to keep vegetables crisp.
What type of chicken works best?
Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken both work perfectly.
Is this salad spicy?
No, it’s mild by default, but you can add chili sauce for heat.
Can I use bagged coleslaw mix?
Yes, it’s a great shortcut and saves preparation time.
Can I make this dairy-free and gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
Conclusion
Crunchy Thai Chicken Salad is the perfect balance of fresh vegetables, tender chicken, and bold peanut dressing. Quick, colorful, and incredibly satisfying, this recipe proves healthy meals can be exciting, flavorful, and easy enough for any home cook to master.